Kojima Reveals Death Stranding 3 Concept, Steps Back from Development

Hideo Kojima has shared a vision for Death Stranding 3, though he will not lead its development. Discover how Death Stranding 2 sets the stage for multiple sequels and what lies ahead for Kojima’s creative journey.

Death Stranding 3 to Proceed Without Kojima’s Direct Involvement

Death Stranding 2 Opens Door to Infinite Sequels

In a May 8 interview with VGC, Hideo Kojima, director of Death Stranding 2 (DS2), disclosed that he has a concept for Death Stranding 3 but will not helm its creation. He explained that a feature in DS2 could enable the series to expand indefinitely.

Kojima highlighted the "Plate Gates" introduced in DS2, which allow the narrative to span various countries, potentially leading to numerous sequels. He noted, "With the Plate Gate system, the series could continue endlessly."

However, Kojima was clear about not directing a potential Death Stranding 3. He stated, "I have no plans to work on it myself, but I’ve already envisioned a concept for another sequel. If I hand it to another developer, they could likely bring it to life." While fans may not see a Kojima-directed sequel soon, other creators could carry forward his ideas with his approval.

COVID-19 Reshaped Death Stranding 2’s Narrative

Kojima also shared how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced DS2’s themes. The original Death Stranding, released in November 2019, came just before global lockdowns began.

He explained, "The world was already drifting toward isolation, like with Brexit. I wanted to emphasize connection, warning that division could lead to catastrophe. That shaped the story and gameplay of the first game."

During the pandemic, Kojima noted parallels between the game’s Chiral Network and the real-world Internet. "The Internet kept us connected during the crisis," he said, underscoring its role in survival.

Yet, he observed that the Internet now fuels division, with people retreating into virtual spaces like the metaverse, reducing real-world interactions.

Kojima emphasized, "Human connection thrives on spontaneity—chance encounters and unexpected experiences. The current trajectory risks losing that essence."

Originally, DS2’s concept was set, but the pandemic prompted Kojima to rethink it. He reflected, "Maybe over-connection isn’t ideal," and wove his lockdown experiences into a character’s perspective.

He hinted that the game’s logos reflect its themes: the first game urged "Let’s Connect," while DS2 questions, "Should we have connected so much?" Kojima teased, "The true meaning of connection is something to ponder, but I’ll leave it at that for now."

New Ventures on the Horizon

While Kojima may not lead the next Death Stranding, he remains active in other projects. In December 2023, he and filmmaker Jordan Peele announced OD (previously Overdose) at The Game Awards 2023, partnering with Microsoft Game Studios.

Kojima shared, "This project, which I’ve been conceptualizing for years, demands unique infrastructure. I pitched it to various companies, but they thought I was crazy."

Additionally, Kojima is collaborating with PlayStation on a "next-generation action espionage game," revealed during January 2024’s State of Play. This original IP marks a milestone as he nears his 40th anniversary in game development. He stated, "This project will be a culmination of my career."

While these projects are still in development, fans can look forward to Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, set for release on June 26, 2025, on PlayStation 5. Kojima recently addressed its release timing amid industry shifts due to GTA 6’s delay. For the latest updates, explore our Death Stranding 2: On The Beach coverage below!